Inside a Dream Is Echosmith’s Strongest Release Yet

Echosmith’sInside a Dream EP, the follow up to 2013’s Talking Dreams, shows a new sense of maturity and depth both musically and lyrically. At only seven songs, the EP showcases how truly talented Sydney, Noah and Graham Sierota are. From synth-heavy pop hits to a stripped-down, emotionally raw acoustic song, Inside a Dream highlights all of Echosmith’s strengths.

The EP hooks the listener with catchy pop songs with relatable lyrics. “Lessons From A Love Song” and “Get Into My Car” are both pretty straightforward on all fronts. Catchy instrumentals and upbeat lyrics about the excitements of new love combine to form radio-ready tracks that are as easy to listen to as they are fun.

A coming-of-age style track, “Hurts To Be 18” perfectly captures how it feels to be a young adult trying to find your place in the world. Sydney Sierota sings, “It hurts to be 18/stuck in the in-between…who am I to decide who I’m supposed to be/I need time to be young and free”, perfectly capturing what it feels like to be growing up and just wanting to be free and love life. The track is almost anthemic in its unflinching freedom, with Sierota bravely singing her fears as if embracing unpredictability and anxiety in life will free her. Thematically, “Hurts To Be 18” flows seamlessly into “Future Me”, a track about taking pride in who you are and being your own hero. The track is uplifting and easy to listen to, with a fun beat and empowering lyrics.

The EP takes a slightly darker turn with the ambient and moody “Goodbye”. The song opens with the lyric “try not to let the burn become a scar”, a reminder to not let the hardships in life consume you. The bouncy beat in the background is almost unsettling against the angry lyrics, creating an interesting dynamic that hooks the listener.

The same moody undertones are present in “Hungry”, a track that shows off Sydney Sierota’s beautiful falsetto. The EP comes to a close with the emotionally charged “Dear World”. With the heartfelt lyrics, “Dear world, I know what you’re going through/I know you’re scared about tomorrow/You’re scared of feeling hollow/I am too”, the Sierota siblings exhibit wisdom and talent beyond their years. “Dear World” is brilliant in its melancholic honesty. The simplicity allows the impassioned lyrics to resonate with the listener. The song is so quiet, yet has a thunderous impact. In a near-whisper, Sydney sings “All of us longing for hope/Dear world, I’m ready to be the change”. With this track, Echosmith proves that they are so much more than just a pop-band, they are a force. Heartfelt honesty and fun pop anthems blend together to create a dynamic and exciting EP, Inside A Dream is perhaps Echosmith’s best work yet.